Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

OCD can be really overwhelming, but the good news is that OCD can be treated. 

At SO Psychology, we use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) which is the gold standard approach for treatment of OCD. So what does that mean? 

ERP is when we gradually practice confronting the fears that make you anxious, intentionally bringing on the obsessions (the intrusive thoughts / images / urges / sensations). We then notice and sit with the feelings that these obsessions bring on. The most important component of ERP however is the response prevention. This is where we plan the response to the obsession - we work on trying to resist engaging in the compulsive behaviour or mental action. Initially it might be too hard to completely stop the compulsion so we look at ways that we might modify the compulsion instead. This might be by missing a step, making it shorter, saying something slightly different so it doesn't feel 'right'. The aim is not to engage fully with that initial urge, and sit with the uncomfortable feelings that come up. 

In therapy we will work together with you to create a plan or hierarchy of the intrusive obsessions that are causing you distress. We will then plan the response together.  We start at a point where it feels like the anxiety will be manageable, so that you get that sense of empowerment, you can beat the OCD! We will work through confronting the situation, lean into the feelings, without engaging in the compulsions. This might be starting out with reading a word list of triggering words, looking at images (cartoon or realistic), listening to audio recordings or writing out imaginal scripts. 

At SO Psychology, we believe it is important to practice ERP in the therapy session together, so we can guide you through what to expect and equip you with the tools to get you back to living the life that you want. We might start out in the therapy room, but then extend to real life situations that occur. Shelley will join you in exposure sessions - this might look like visiting a local supermarket, catching public transport, eating out at a cafe, being in a crowded area, going to the airport, a playground or even going to the cemetery. Alot of the time triggers are at home, so we can also engage in telehealth sessions so you can practice in session while feeling safe and supported by your OCD psychologist. 

SO Psychology is based in Inner Melbourne, with Shelley practicing from rooms in Carlton, or via telehealth. Shelley is a Clinical Psychologist, with a special interest in treating children, adolescents and adults with mild to severe OCD. 

To reach out for an free 15 minute phone consultation, or to book, please contact Shelley here.